A leading presidential aspirant under Action Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, has criticised the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu over reported plans to power the Presidential Villa with solar energy and disconnect it from the national grid.
Obi, in a statement posted on his X handle on Monday, expressed concern over what he described as the continued poor performance of the national grid more than two years after Tinubu assumed office.
The former Anambra governor recalled a campaign statement credited to Tinubu in which he urged Nigerians not to vote for him if he failed to deliver stable electricity within four years.Obi argued that 32 months into the administration, the promise of improved power supply remains largely unmet.
“Thirty-two months after being in charge and instead of living by his powerful words, he now dumps the National Grid that has been performing abysmally under his watch,” Obi wrote.
Want to stay updated about everything in NIGERIA?
Click the button below to join our WhatsApp group...
He noted that the President’s earlier assurance had raised expectations among citizens who hoped for reliable electricity to power homes and businesses, but lamented that many Nigerians are still grappling with erratic supply without clear explanations from the government on the challenges confronting the sector.
Obi also took issue with provisions reportedly contained in the 2025 budget allocating ₦10 billion for solar power at Aso Rock Presidential Villa, as well as additional funds in the proposed 2026 budget for upgrades and maintenance.
The ADC chieftain described as troubling reports suggesting that the Villa may be fully disconnected from the national grid to rely entirely on solar energy.
“It is a gross neglect and deeply worrisome when the seat of power abandons the national grid.
One would expect government institutions to lead efforts to strengthen and expand the grid so that other establishments, and ultimately citizens, can benefit. If those in authority disconnect themselves from the system, who then will connect the ordinary Nigerian to reliable power?” He queried.
While acknowledging that renewable energy solutions such as solar power are important for the future, Obi argued that the move sends the wrong signal at a time when millions of Nigerians continue to face persistent blackouts.
According to him, governance must reflect empathy and shared sacrifice, insisting that leaders should not insulate themselves from the hardships confronting the populace.
“Nigerians do not expect 100 per cent fulfilment of promises, but they do expect 100 per cent effort, accompanied by measurable improvements and clear explanations when gaps exist. Leadership must serve the people, not isolate itself from their daily struggles,” he stated.
The Presidency had yet to issue an official response to Obi’s remarks as of the time of filing this report.
Want to stay updated about everything in NIGERIA?
Click the button below to join our WhatsApp group...
